If you’re craving a dish that combines irresistible crunch with a sweet and buttery glaze, you have to try this Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe. Every bite offers that perfect balance of juicy, tender chicken enveloped in a golden, crispy coating, all kissed by a luscious honey butter sauce that elevates simple fried chicken into something truly spectacular. Whether you’re serving these for a family dinner or a casual gathering, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast — trust me, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting the perfect Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe requires just a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver incredible flavor and texture. Each component is essential, from the crunch of the panko breadcrumbs to the smooth sweetness of honey mingling with melted butter and a hint of garlic.
- Chicken tenders: 1 pound of tender, juicy chicken strips is the star of this recipe.
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup, to create the first layer that helps the coating stick perfectly.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, to season and bring out deep flavors.
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, adding a subtle kick that balances the sweetness.
- Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon, for a smoky undertone and beautiful color.
- Large eggs: 2, mixed with milk to help the breadcrumbs adhere effortlessly.
- Milk: 2 tablespoons, to create that perfectly thick egg wash.
- Panko breadcrumbs: 1 1/2 cups, providing that signature extra-crispy texture.
- Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup, for the rich and creamy honey butter sauce.
- Honey: 1/4 cup, to sweeten and elevate the crispy tenders.
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon, adding a subtle savory depth to the sauce.
- Cooking oil: for frying, necessary to achieve the golden, crispy exterior.
How to Make Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Coatings
Begin by setting up your breading station with three shallow bowls: mix the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika in the first bowl to season your chicken evenly. Whisk together the eggs and milk in the second bowl to form the egg wash. In the third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs, which will create that wonderfully crispy crust.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
Take each chicken tender and dredge it first into the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully covered. Then dip it into the egg wash, allowing the excess to drip off before coating it thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs. This triple-step process ensures a crunchy and flavorful bite every time.
Step 3: Fry to Perfection
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the oil. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each side for approximately 3 to 4 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through. Drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Honey Butter Sauce
While the chicken is frying, melt the butter gently in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the honey and garlic powder and mix until smooth and combined. This sauce will coat the tenders with a glossy, sweet, and savory finish that truly ties the whole dish together.
Step 5: Coat and Serve
Drizzle the warm honey butter sauce over the hot, crispy chicken tenders or toss them lightly to ensure each piece is generously coated. Serve immediately to enjoy the full contrast of crispy texture and melty sweetness.
How to Serve Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives over the chicken tenders can bring a burst of color and a slight herbal brightness that complements the sweetness of the honey butter sauce wonderfully. For a little extra zing, a dusting of smoked paprika adds visual appeal and depth of flavor.
Side Dishes
These tenders pair beautifully with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, garlic mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. Alternatively, a light green salad adds freshness and helps balance the richness, while a side of crunchy pickles or pickled jalapeños offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, arrange the Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe on a wooden board with small dipping bowls of ranch, spicy mayo, or even a tangy barbecue sauce. You can also stack them in a fun chicken tender slider with mini buns and crisp lettuce for a playful twist perfect for casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the crispiness, try to keep the sauce separate and drizzle it on just before reheating or serving again.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to prepare ahead of time. Arrange the breaded and cooked chicken tenders on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month for convenient future meals.
Reheating
To reheat without losing crispiness, place the tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that tends to make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of frying?
Absolutely! For a lighter alternative, bake the breaded chicken tenders at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness. The honey butter sauce can be added after baking for that perfect finishing touch.
What is the best type of honey to use?
Use a mild-flavored honey like clover or wildflower honey to achieve a perfectly balanced sweetness without overpowering the savory flavors of the chicken and garlic.
Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil to keep the honey butter sauce deliciously rich while accommodating dietary preferences.
How do I get extra crispy chicken tenders?
For an even crunchier crust, try double-coating the chicken by dipping them back into the egg wash and panko breadcrumbs before frying. Also, make sure the oil is hot enough to avoid sogginess.
Are these tenders kid-friendly?
Definitely! The crispy texture and sweet honey butter glaze make this recipe a hit with kids, perfect for lunches, dinners, or even parties. Pair with their favorite dipping sauce for an extra-special treat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about homemade Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe that turns a simple chicken dish into a crowd-pleaser. It’s crispy, juicy, sweet, and savory all at once, and once you’ve tried making it yourself, I promise it will become your go-to for quick weeknights or show-stopping weekend meals. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy one of the most deliciously comforting dishes you’ll ever make!
Print
Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders are perfectly golden fried chicken strips coated in a crunchy panko breadcrumb crust and drizzled with a luscious honey butter garlic sauce. This easy-to-make American main course combines savory, sweet, and buttery flavors for an irresistible meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil preferred)
For the Honey Butter Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading Stations: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl for coating.
- Coat the Chicken Tenders: Dip each chicken tender first into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Then dip it into the egg and milk mixture, followed by a thorough coating in the panko breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, consider repeating the egg and panko coating step.
- Heat the Oil: Pour enough cooking oil into a large skillet to cover the bottom by about 1/4 inch and heat it over medium heat until shimmering and hot, roughly 350°F if using a thermometer.
- Fry the Chicken: Place the coated chicken tenders in the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown color and are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Work in batches as needed.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried tenders from the skillet and set them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Make the Honey Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the honey and garlic powder until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat.
- Coat the Chicken in Sauce: Drizzle the warm honey butter sauce over the crispy chicken tenders or gently toss the tenders in the sauce so each piece is evenly coated.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the crispy honey butter chicken tenders hot for the best flavor and texture, optionally accompanied by dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mayo.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double-coat the chicken by dipping back into the egg and panko breadcrumbs a second time before frying.
- To make a lighter version, bake the coated chicken tenders at 400°F (204°C) for 20 minutes instead of frying.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch dressing or spicy mayonnaise for added flavor.
- Use a thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
